The helmet that Charles Leclerc ran at the Monaco Grand Prix has raised a world-record price at auction.
Leclerc auctioned a series of one off race gear used at his home grand prix including his race suit, boots and gloves as well as his crash helmet.
The auction, hosted by RM Sotheby’s, was held to raise money for those affected by the devastating flooding in Emilia-Romagna which saw the Grand Prix in Imola cancelled last month.
43 cities and towns were hit by the flooding which left 17 dead and over 50,000 people displaced from their homes and causing an estimated €7 billion in damages.
The Charles Leclerc for Emilia-Romagna initiative raised €358,000 for the region, adding to the charitable donations from Ferrari and Formula 1.
The tribute helmet that Leclerc ran in Monaco fetched €306,000 at auction, shattering the record for the highest-priced racing helmet ever auctioned.
The previous record was set in 2019 when a helmet worn by Ayrton Senna in 1990 sold for €162,000.
Leclerc’s race suit raised €61,200 whilst his gloves sold for €42,000 and his boots for €20,400.
In a statement following the auction, Sotheby’s said: “The success of this auction not only reflects Charles Leclerc’s immense talent and contribution to motorsport but also demonstrates the generosity and support from enthusiasts worldwide.
“The proceeds will make a substantial impact on the lives of those affected by the recent flooding in Emilia-Romagna.”
Leclerc thanked bidders and organisers in a message shared on social media, saying: “Thank you so much to all the people who did participate to the auction.
“358,000 euros is an incredible amount that I’m sure will help many people. Thank you so much.
“Big thank you as well to (Sotheby’s) for organising everything so quickly.”